Bringing a fresh perspective to the table. Let me help tell your story.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Buddy up to run

In my spare nanoseconds, I'm the race director for the Women's Distance Festival 5K Run/Walk. I've been doing this for five years, and each time I look to introduce something new or different that will encourage more participants to "run for fun and fitness," which is the motto of my running club.

Three years ago, I introduced the concept of holding training runs on the same cross country course as the race. This year, I stumbled onto an idea that has really taken off: buddy up. The intent is for seasoned runners to pair up with newbies on the training runs, and for people who run a similar pace to find new running buddies. For the race on Oct. 10, there is a reduced buddy-up entry fee for runners who register together by mail.

The results so far have been a significant increase in women coming out to the training runs -- and about half the registrations being of the buddy-up kind.

As one of the members of the race committee remarked, "Women like to race with someone; men like to race against someone. I guess they are basic differences between the sexes."

Whether it's a gender thing or just that misery loves company, it doesn't matter. What I'm thrilled to see are more women taking the time for personal fitness...and a little bit of fun for themselves. Winning and medals are beside the point.

No comments:

Post a Comment

About the author

In 2000, I jumped off the corporate ladder and started AMY INK to provide “Fresh Thinking, Effective Writing” to business clients around the world. I leverage the expertise gained over years as an executive speechwriter and communications staffer -- including VP spots at two global companies -- with the changing trends of today’s social media. The common thread in all my work: writing clear, engaging content that builds relationships with audiences.
Email me or visit my Web site
AmyInk.com;
LinkedIN;
Twitter; or About.Me.